Neuroblastoma -- Child

Definition

Neuroblastoma is a rare, cancer that usually occurs in children under age five. The tumor is often found during infancy and may begin before birth. It typically develops in nerve tissue near the adrenal glands just above the kidneys. However, some tumors may develop in the abdomen, chest, neck, or spinal cord.

Like most cancers, neuroblastoma can eventually spread to other parts of the body. Early detection and treatment may prevent the spread of cancer.

The cancer can spread to the liver, lungs, and bones. Early detection is key to a good prognosis.

Treatment

Talk with the doctor about the best treatment plan for your child. Treatment options include:

Surgery

If possible, surgery may be done to remove the tumor.

Chemotherapy and Radiation Therapy

Chemotherapy
is the use of drugs to kill cancer cells. The drugs enter the bloodstream and travel through the body, killing mostly cancer cells. With
radiation therapy
, radiation is directed at the tumor to kill the cancer cells. Radiation therapy may be used if the cancer has spread.

Bone Marrow Transplantation

During this type of
transplant
, bone marrow is removed, treated, and frozen. Large doses of chemotherapy and/or radiation therapy are applied to kill the cancer cells. After treatment, the bone marrow is replaced via a vein. Transplanted bone marrow may be your child’s own bone marrow that was treated or it may be marrow from a healthy donor.

Some neuroblastomas go away on their own. It is not known why this happens.

Prevention

Since the exact cause is unknown, there is no way to prevent this type of tumor from forming.

Revision Information

This content is reviewed regularly and is updated when new and relevant evidence is made available. This information is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with questions regarding a medical condition.